From umjenki5 at cc.umanitoba.ca Thu Dec 8 17:48:33 2005
From: umjenki5 at cc.umanitoba.ca (Mark Jenkins)
Date: Thu, 08 Dec 2005 16:48:33 -0600
Subject: [Python Wpg] location, format, group title
Message-ID: <4398B841.9070309@cc.umanitoba.ca>
> I'd like to have a first informal meeting on December 13th during the
> day, perhaps 12:00 noon or 1:00 p.m., perhaps downtown.
Good time for me, no exams that day. I like downtownish. Upper level of
Bullman centre at U of W perhaps? But, I would not suggest that
particular location for the real meetings. Characteristics of an ideal
location:
* Central, preferably downtown over other central locations because it
simplifies bus ussage
* Projector access
* Desktop computers available so people without laptops can hack and mingle
Internet access is a bonus, but I wouldn't sacrifice any of the above
for it. I have a full copy of the documentation on my laptop hard drive.
Any thoughts on a group title? I think Winnipeg Python Users Group would
be somewhat boring. PyPeg is cooler. Or, if you like both, append the
former to the later as a subtitle: "PyPeg: The Winnipeg Python Users Group".
My thoughts on a potential format:
1. Language feature of the month. A short presentation on an aspect of
the language that can be found in the tutorial.
(http://docs.python.org/tut/tut.html)
2. Included battery of the month. A short presentation on something
described in the library reference. (http://docs.python.org/lib/lib.html)
3. Short break for mingling and hacking
4. A longer feature presentation or discussion. Examples: Presentation
on a 3rd party library or a Python application, discussion of pythonic
vs. unpythonic programming style, tricks, techniques, solutions to
classic programming problems in Python, debate on proposed language
changes, more in depth looks at the something that falls under the
domain of (1) or (2).
5. More mingling and hacking until everyone goes home.
Mark
From mpfaiffer at callapple.org Thu Dec 8 17:21:39 2005
From: mpfaiffer at callapple.org (Mike Pfaiffer)
Date: Thu, 08 Dec 2005 16:21:39 -0600
Subject: [Python Wpg] Meeting time and location
Message-ID: <200512081621.39338.mpfaiffer@callapple.org>
The 13'th is the same date as the MUUG meeting. Rather than a lunch time
meeting (which is OK too) why not have the organisational meeting just before
the MUUG meeting. If this sounds good, I usually have a meal at Subway (the
corner of Portage Place) around 6:30. If there is a lot to talk about then
perhaps 6:15 might be a better time. At about five or ten to 7:00 we could
all collectively head over to the MUUG meeting.
A lunch time UG is an interesting idea. I doubt many employers would want to
go for it though. Then there is the time needed to go from work to the
meeting and back. If the members can get an afternoon off (preferably with
pay) it would be a great idea. No conflicts unless a member is going to
school.
For a venue I'd suggest some place cheap with an internet connection. Python
can connect to the net can't it? If the group can get some corporate sponsors
then it opens up the number of possible locations. Playing on the education
angle, perhaps one of the three universities in Winnipeg or RRCC might be
willing to donate a room. Some church basements or high school classrooms
might be a good idea if the timing is good. During daylight hours most places
in town are still fine. If the meetings are in the evening then perhaps some
place in the suburbs might be a little less stressful.
For potential topics I might suggest the first few could be devoted to the
creation of a quick reference "card" which can be handed out at subsequent
meetings. The MWCS has an interesting approach to their meetings which might
work well here. They have a period of time at the beginning for newbies and
have a main presentation later. If someone doesn't want to sit in on the
first part they can show up after the break. I can probably drag in a couple
of people but they'd know less about Python than I do (the only thing I did
was a "hello world" program after a presentation from the MUUG).
A good first step for publicity would be an entry in the leisure guide.
Unlike a traditional computer or advocasy club getting some space in a mall
for the weekend wouldn't do too much. Contacting the user groups,
univerisities, community colleges, and school boards would be as much as
could be expected. The average Joe isn't going to walk in off the street and
want to become a Python user. It is pretty esoteric.
Since it was hinted there is Python for the Mac I may be able to persuade
some friends at Call-A.P.P.L.E. to include a section for Python in the
magazine (someone other than myself has to write the articles). Since they
are looking to archive as many programs as they can, this might be a good
place to store tutorials and demos created by the group.
Later
Mike
--
+----------------------------------------------------------------------+
|Call-A.P.P.L.E. and the Digital Civilization http://www.callapple.org |
| http://members.shaw.ca/pfaiffer = Mike Pfaiffer (B.A., B.Sc.) |
+----------------------------------------------------------------------+
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From phil at rephil.org Thu Dec 8 19:38:22 2005
From: phil at rephil.org (Phil Mendelsohn)
Date: Thu, 8 Dec 2005 18:38:22 -0600 (CST)
Subject: [Python Wpg] Meeting time and location
In-Reply-To: <200512081621.39338.mpfaiffer@callapple.org>
References: <200512081621.39338.mpfaiffer@callapple.org>
Message-ID: <60332.64.201.190.96.1134088702.squirrel@webmail.non-prophet.org>
Mike Pfaiffer said:
> The 13'th is the same date as the MUUG meeting.
<SNIP>
> If there is a lot to talk about then
> perhaps 6:15 might be a better time. At about five or ten to 7:00 we could
> all collectively head over to the MUUG meeting.
Not everyone is a MUUG member. In fact, not everyone lives in town!
I like Stuart's original suggestion. Any place should be good on that
day, for me, I think.
I would also encourage that structure and organization be kept to a
minimum -- time, place, and one topic per meeting. It's better to run
long on a simple program than be burdened with organizing a big meeting.
No constraints beyond that -- personally, I find Python a lot more
interesting than the "Club Organization Club." ;)
Of course, I'm probably trying to recreate the environment at the TCPZUG
(Twin Cities Python/Zope Users Group) which was loosely based on the TCLUG
minimal format.
The location can be flexible, but it may be easier to keep time and date
the same every month (or two-weeks, or year, or whatever).
Best,
Phil M
--
Dept. of Mathematics, 342 Machray Hall
U. of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada R3T 2N2
Office: 446 Machray Hall, 204-474-6470
http://www.rephil.org/ phil at rephil dot org
From mpfaiffer at callapple.org Thu Dec 8 20:55:39 2005
From: mpfaiffer at callapple.org (Mike Pfaiffer)
Date: Thu, 08 Dec 2005 19:55:39 -0600
Subject: [Python Wpg] Meeting time and location
In-Reply-To: <60332.64.201.190.96.1134088702.squirrel@webmail.non-prophet.org>
References: <200512081621.39338.mpfaiffer@callapple.org>
<60332.64.201.190.96.1134088702.squirrel@webmail.non-prophet.org>
Message-ID: <200512081955.39500.mpfaiffer@callapple.org>
On December 8, 2005 06:38 pm, Phil Mendelsohn wrote this amazing epistle:
> Mike Pfaiffer said:
> > The 13'th is the same date as the MUUG meeting.
>
> <SNIP>
>
> > If there is a lot to talk about then
> > perhaps 6:15 might be a better time. At about five or ten to 7:00 we
> > could all collectively head over to the MUUG meeting.
>
> Not everyone is a MUUG member. In fact, not everyone lives in town!
Relax. It was only a suggestion. ;-)
Besides, the meeting is free and open to the public. I figured the Python
group meeting would be brief. This way it would save those who are MUUG
members an extra trip.
> I like Stuart's original suggestion. Any place should be good on that
> day, for me, I think.
I'm OK with the day and time as long as we all agree on it. As long as it is
accessible by bus, I'm fine.
> I would also encourage that structure and organization be kept to a
> minimum -- time, place, and one topic per meeting. It's better to run
> long on a simple program than be burdened with organizing a big meeting.
> No constraints beyond that -- personally, I find Python a lot more
> interesting than the "Club Organization Club." ;)
For next weeks meeting, it's pretty much going to be on how we are going to
organise the club. At least that's how I read it. I didn't think it was
already set up. After the initial meeting, subsequent meetings will be what
ever the club decides. Consider it an "executive" meeting before the general
meeting. Most user groups do it this way so people are prepared when it's
time to speak.
> Of course, I'm probably trying to recreate the environment at the TCPZUG
> (Twin Cities Python/Zope Users Group) which was loosely based on the TCLUG
> minimal format.
I can't comment on either since I've never attended either.
> The location can be flexible, but it may be easier to keep time and date
> the same every month (or two-weeks, or year, or whatever).
Agreed. I would also suggest a consistant location. This way it's more likely
to have "walk in" traffic. If potential members have to figure out the
location from meeting to meeting, they are less likely to attend. It's one
thing to be an elite club but another thing entirely to discourage new
membership or limit it to invitation only.
> Best,
> Phil M
Later
Mike
--
+----------------------------------------------------------------------+
|Call-A.P.P.L.E. and the Digital Civilization http://www.callapple.org |
| http://members.shaw.ca/pfaiffer = Mike Pfaiffer (B.A., B.Sc.) |
+----------------------------------------------------------------------+
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From mpfaiffer at callapple.org Sun Dec 11 13:30:12 2005
From: mpfaiffer at callapple.org (Mike Pfaiffer)
Date: Sun, 11 Dec 2005 12:30:12 -0600
Subject: [Python Wpg] Meeting time and location
Message-ID: <200512111230.13260.mpfaiffer@callapple.org>
Assuming I'm still on the mailing list, what has everybody decided for a time
and place for the first meeting? So far I remember seeing two suggestions.
Tuesday is only two days away...
Later
Mike
--
+----------------------------------------------------------------------+
|Call-A.P.P.L.E. and the Digital Civilization http://www.callapple.org |
| http://members.shaw.ca/pfaiffer = Mike Pfaiffer (B.A., B.Sc.) |
+----------------------------------------------------------------------+
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From stuartw at mts.net Sun Dec 11 15:47:11 2005
From: stuartw at mts.net (Stuart Williams)
Date: Sun, 11 Dec 2005 14:47:11 -0600
Subject: [Python Wpg] Meeting Tuesday December 13th 1:00 p.m. at The Fyxx
Message-ID: <17308.36943.372580.761949@gargle.gargle.HOWL>
I hear support from several for an organizing meeting Tuesday downtown
near noon. Let's meet at 1:00 p.m. at The Fyxx at the southwest
corner of Broadway and Donald (http://www.thefyxx.mb.ca/). I'll be
there around 12:30 or 12:45 and ordering lunch.
I think an hour would be plenty of time, but feel free to come and go
when you can even if you can't stay for all of it. It certainly won't
be very formal.
I propose the following agenda for the meeting which is indeed an
"executive meeting" to talk about what we want to do, but not to
actually do too much of it.
meeting dates and times
venue
meeting topics
brainstorm for publicity
website
other activities beyond meetings
Stuart Williams.
From mpfaiffer at callapple.org Mon Dec 12 00:55:22 2005
From: mpfaiffer at callapple.org (Mike Pfaiffer)
Date: Sun, 11 Dec 2005 23:55:22 -0600
Subject: [Python Wpg] Meeting Tuesday December 13th 1:00 p.m. at The Fyxx
In-Reply-To: <17308.36943.372580.761949@gargle.gargle.HOWL>
References: <17308.36943.372580.761949@gargle.gargle.HOWL>
Message-ID: <200512112355.22925.mpfaiffer@callapple.org>
On December 11, 2005 02:47 pm, Stuart Williams wrote this amazing epistle:
> I hear support from several for an organizing meeting Tuesday downtown
> near noon. Let's meet at 1:00 p.m. at The Fyxx at the southwest
> corner of Broadway and Donald (http://www.thefyxx.mb.ca/). I'll be
> there around 12:30 or 12:45 and ordering lunch.
>
> I think an hour would be plenty of time, but feel free to come and go
> when you can even if you can't stay for all of it. It certainly won't
> be very formal.
>
> I propose the following agenda for the meeting which is indeed an
> "executive meeting" to talk about what we want to do, but not to
> actually do too much of it.
>
> meeting dates and times
> venue
> meeting topics
> brainstorm for publicity
> website
> other activities beyond meetings
>
> Stuart Williams.
Since there's going to be a bunch of us who've never seen each other before
then perhaps a little sign on the table might be a good idea. Or something
less obvious... A book on Python. ;-)
Later
Mike
--
+----------------------------------------------------------------------+
|Call-A.P.P.L.E. and the Digital Civilization http://www.callapple.org |
| http://members.shaw.ca/pfaiffer = Mike Pfaiffer (B.A., B.Sc.) |
+----------------------------------------------------------------------+
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From phil at rephil.org Mon Dec 12 01:05:50 2005
From: phil at rephil.org (Phil Mendelsohn)
Date: Mon, 12 Dec 2005 00:05:50 -0600 (CST)
Subject: [Python Wpg] Meet Tues Dec 13th 1:00 p.m. at The Fyxx
In-Reply-To: <200512112355.22925.mpfaiffer@callapple.org>
References: <17308.36943.372580.761949@gargle.gargle.HOWL>
<200512112355.22925.mpfaiffer@callapple.org>
Message-ID: <63263.64.201.190.96.1134367550.squirrel@webmail.non-prophet.org>
Mike Pfaiffer said:
> Since there's going to be a bunch of us who've never seen each other
> before
> then perhaps a little sign on the table might be a good idea. Or something
> less obvious... A book on Python. ;-)
Not a bad idea, but you'll probably find it unnecessary you get there.
I've started a couple of user's groups before, and playing "Spot the
Geeks" is *not* very hard! ;) (Especially given the size and layout of
the Fyxx.)
That said, I'll probably bring my laptop, even if we don't really need it,
though I think there's no need to wear it in my lapel.
Any tips on parking?
Phil M
--
Dept. of Mathematics, 342 Machray Hall
U. of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada R3T 2N2
Office: 446 Machray Hall, 204-474-6470
http://www.rephil.org/ phil at rephil dot org
From umjenki5 at cc.umanitoba.ca Mon Dec 12 02:14:10 2005
From: umjenki5 at cc.umanitoba.ca (Mark Jenkins)
Date: Mon, 12 Dec 2005 01:14:10 -0600
Subject: [Python Wpg] Meet Tues Dec 13th 1:00 p.m. at The Fyxx
In-Reply-To: <63263.64.201.190.96.1134367550.squirrel@webmail.non-prophet.org>
References: <17308.36943.372580.761949@gargle.gargle.HOWL> <200512112355.22925.mpfaiffer@callapple.org>
<63263.64.201.190.96.1134367550.squirrel@webmail.non-prophet.org>
Message-ID: <439D2342.8090503@cc.umanitoba.ca>
> "Spot the Geeks" is *not* very hard!
You're right. Plus, I've met Stuart before and my laptop is a dead
giveaway, I have two stickers related to free software.
Also, there is a photo of me here,
http://home.cc.umanitoba.ca/~umjenki5/
just add 2cm of facial hair. :-*)*
> Any tips on parking?
Parking at home and taking a bus. Transfer will probably get you home
too, you could potentially spend less on busfare compared to parking. I
would imagine that finding a spot at that time of day would be stressful.
From phil at rephil.org Mon Dec 12 09:38:34 2005
From: phil at rephil.org (Phil Mendelsohn)
Date: Mon, 12 Dec 2005 08:38:34 -0600 (CST)
Subject: [Python Wpg] Meet Tues Dec 13th 1:00 p.m. at The Fyxx
In-Reply-To: <439D2342.8090503@cc.umanitoba.ca>
References: <17308.36943.372580.761949@gargle.gargle.HOWL> <200512112355.22925.mpfaiffer@callapple.org><63263.64.201.190.96.1134367550.squirrel@webmail.non-prophet.org>
<439D2342.8090503@cc.umanitoba.ca>
Message-ID: <63337.64.201.190.96.1134398314.squirrel@webmail.non-prophet.org>
Mark Jenkins said:
>> Any tips on parking?
>
> Parking at home and taking a bus.
Sorry -- there are no buses from Landmark to Winnipeg, or I'd consider it.
For various logistical reasons, I can't leave the car at the U and take
the bus either.
That said, if anyone needs a ride from the University area, I'd be willing
to offer one.
Phil M
--
Dept. of Mathematics, 342 Machray Hall
U. of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada R3T 2N2
Office: 446 Machray Hall, 204-474-6470
http://www.rephil.org/ phil at rephil dot org
From stuartw at mts.net Mon Dec 12 10:41:55 2005
From: stuartw at mts.net (Stuart Williams)
Date: Mon, 12 Dec 2005 09:41:55 -0600
Subject: [Python Wpg] Meet Tues Dec 13th 1:00 p.m. at The Fyxx
In-Reply-To: <63263.64.201.190.96.1134367550.squirrel@webmail.non-prophet.org>
References: <17308.36943.372580.761949@gargle.gargle.HOWL>
<200512112355.22925.mpfaiffer@callapple.org>
<63263.64.201.190.96.1134367550.squirrel@webmail.non-prophet.org>
Message-ID: <17309.39491.978094.119793@gargle.gargle.HOWL>
>>>>> Phil Mendelsohn writes:
> Any tips on parking?
In my experience, I often find on-street parking within a couple of
blocks of my destination.
Also note there's a free bus that goes past The Fyxx that loops much
of downtown and the Forks, so you could park far away, but on that
route, and hop on that bus.
Stuart.
From mpfaiffer at callapple.org Mon Dec 12 11:19:19 2005
From: mpfaiffer at callapple.org (Mike Pfaiffer)
Date: Mon, 12 Dec 2005 10:19:19 -0600
Subject: [Python Wpg] Meet Tues Dec 13th 1:00 p.m. at The Fyxx
In-Reply-To: <439D2342.8090503@cc.umanitoba.ca>
References: <17308.36943.372580.761949@gargle.gargle.HOWL>
<63263.64.201.190.96.1134367550.squirrel@webmail.non-prophet.org>
<439D2342.8090503@cc.umanitoba.ca>
Message-ID: <200512121019.19203.mpfaiffer@callapple.org>
On December 12, 2005 01:14 am, Mark Jenkins wrote this amazing epistle:
> > "Spot the Geeks" is *not* very hard!
>
> You're right. Plus, I've met Stuart before and my laptop is a dead
> giveaway, I have two stickers related to free software.
>
> Also, there is a photo of me here,
> http://home.cc.umanitoba.ca/~umjenki5/
> just add 2cm of facial hair. :-*)*
I know you. I'll bring the video I keep promising. ;-)
Later
Mike
--
+----------------------------------------------------------------------+
|Call-A.P.P.L.E. and the Digital Civilization http://www.callapple.org |
| http://members.shaw.ca/pfaiffer = Mike Pfaiffer (B.A., B.Sc.) |
+----------------------------------------------------------------------+
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From phil at rephil.org Mon Dec 12 11:32:49 2005
From: phil at rephil.org (Phil Mendelsohn)
Date: Mon, 12 Dec 2005 10:32:49 -0600 (CST)
Subject: [Python Wpg] Python group name
In-Reply-To: <17308.36943.372580.761949@gargle.gargle.HOWL>
References: <17308.36943.372580.761949@gargle.gargle.HOWL>
Message-ID: <63426.64.201.190.96.1134405169.squirrel@webmail.non-prophet.org>
Sorry to dweeb, but in the cliche spirit of recursive acronyms, the name
of the users group should probably be "Wpg. Python Group," or WPG for
short.
PhilM
--
Dept. of Mathematics, 342 Machray Hall
U. of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada R3T 2N2
Office: 446 Machray Hall, 204-474-6470
http://www.rephil.org/ phil at rephil dot org
From mpfaiffer at callapple.org Mon Dec 12 11:37:02 2005
From: mpfaiffer at callapple.org (Mike Pfaiffer)
Date: Mon, 12 Dec 2005 10:37:02 -0600
Subject: [Python Wpg] Meet Tues Dec 13th 1:00 p.m. at The Fyxx
In-Reply-To: <63337.64.201.190.96.1134398314.squirrel@webmail.non-prophet.org>
References: <17308.36943.372580.761949@gargle.gargle.HOWL>
<439D2342.8090503@cc.umanitoba.ca>
<63337.64.201.190.96.1134398314.squirrel@webmail.non-prophet.org>
Message-ID: <200512121037.02604.mpfaiffer@callapple.org>
On December 12, 2005 08:38 am, Phil Mendelsohn wrote this amazing epistle:
> Mark Jenkins said:
> >> Any tips on parking?
> >
> > Parking at home and taking a bus.
>
> Sorry -- there are no buses from Landmark to Winnipeg, or I'd consider it.
>
> For various logistical reasons, I can't leave the car at the U and take
> the bus either.
If you are going to be in the South East area, there is a (free) Park and
Ride section in the Southdale Mall. The 16 (I think) and 57 stop next to the
lot. Both go directly downtown. If you don't mind walking three or four
blocks North there is the 19 which runs more frequently. The 75 goes out to
the U of M and Kildonan Place from there as well.
> That said, if anyone needs a ride from the University area, I'd be willing
> to offer one.
It's a kind offer. Heading out to the U of M from here is one route downtown.
It would be faster for me (and maybe you) to catch the 19 and walk a few
blocks.
> Phil M
Later
Mike
--
+----------------------------------------------------------------------+
|Call-A.P.P.L.E. and the Digital Civilization http://www.callapple.org |
| http://members.shaw.ca/pfaiffer = Mike Pfaiffer (B.A., B.Sc.) |
+----------------------------------------------------------------------+
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From mpfaiffer at callapple.org Mon Dec 12 12:45:43 2005
From: mpfaiffer at callapple.org (Mike Pfaiffer)
Date: Mon, 12 Dec 2005 11:45:43 -0600
Subject: [Python Wpg] Python group name
In-Reply-To: <63426.64.201.190.96.1134405169.squirrel@webmail.non-prophet.org>
References: <17308.36943.372580.761949@gargle.gargle.HOWL>
<63426.64.201.190.96.1134405169.squirrel@webmail.non-prophet.org>
Message-ID: <200512121145.43704.mpfaiffer@callapple.org>
On December 12, 2005 10:32 am, Phil Mendelsohn wrote this amazing epistle:
> Sorry to dweeb, but in the cliche spirit of recursive acronyms, the name
> of the users group should probably be "Wpg. Python Group," or WPG for
> short.
>
> PhilM
That's so bad I love it. :-)
Later
Mike
--
+----------------------------------------------------------------------+
|Call-A.P.P.L.E. and the Digital Civilization http://www.callapple.org |
| http://members.shaw.ca/pfaiffer = Mike Pfaiffer (B.A., B.Sc.) |
+----------------------------------------------------------------------+
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From syd at plug.ca Tue Dec 13 18:42:01 2005
From: syd at plug.ca (syd at plug.ca)
Date: Tue, 13 Dec 2005 17:42:01 -0600 (CST)
Subject: [Python Wpg] topics i forgot to mention
Message-ID: <51482.24.79.4.246.1134517321.squirrel@mail2.plug.ca>
A couple of topics that would be interesting (to me, at least) that I
forgot to mention:
1. Python enhanced shells like ipython (very handy for auto completion,
inspection), emacs python mode, (maybe vi(m) macros if anyone has any that
they use?)
2. Python IDEs - Boa, Stani's Python Editor, Eclipse Python Plug-In (never
gotten this to work, but i hear it does) (could be combined with #1 as
"what tools are you using?")
3. For people who may be familiar with other object oriented languages but
want to know how it's done in Python: How do modules, directories, files,
and classes affect import statements, and how does that in turn affect
namespaces? What does __init__.py do? How does inheritance work in Python?
How do I override an inherited method? How do I call an inherited
constructor? Why the heck would I *want* to call an inherited constructor?
Kind of a general walk-through of how to take advantage of the
object-oriented features of Python.
Regards,
Syd
From syd at plug.ca Tue Dec 13 19:49:37 2005
From: syd at plug.ca (syd at plug.ca)
Date: Tue, 13 Dec 2005 18:49:37 -0600 (CST)
Subject: [Python Wpg] Python Users Group Story on plug.ca
Message-ID: <51787.24.79.4.246.1134521377.squirrel@mail2.plug.ca>
I thought I would put up a quick story about today's meeting. Please
suggest any revisions or enhancements I ought to make.
http://plug.ca/article.php?story=20051213175736346
Regards,
Syd
From mpfaiffer at callapple.org Wed Dec 14 00:08:35 2005
From: mpfaiffer at callapple.org (Mike Pfaiffer)
Date: Tue, 13 Dec 2005 23:08:35 -0600
Subject: [Python Wpg] Python Users Group Story on plug.ca
In-Reply-To: <51787.24.79.4.246.1134521377.squirrel@mail2.plug.ca>
References: <51787.24.79.4.246.1134521377.squirrel@mail2.plug.ca>
Message-ID: <200512132308.36262.mpfaiffer@callapple.org>
On December 13, 2005 06:49 pm, syd at plug.ca wrote this amazing epistle:
> I thought I would put up a quick story about today's meeting. Please
> suggest any revisions or enhancements I ought to make.
>
> http://plug.ca/article.php?story=20051213175736346
>
> Regards,
> Syd
>
I have no problem with the page I read.
BTW, I contacted my friend at the WPCUG about making an announcement at their
meeting next week. I also contacted Gilbert at the MUUG and the announcement
was made tonight.
Later
Mike
--
+----------------------------------------------------------------------+
|Call-A.P.P.L.E. and the Digital Civilization http://www.callapple.org |
| http://members.shaw.ca/pfaiffer = Mike Pfaiffer (B.A., B.Sc.) |
+----------------------------------------------------------------------+
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From mpfaiffer at callapple.org Wed Dec 14 00:26:52 2005
From: mpfaiffer at callapple.org (Mike Pfaiffer)
Date: Tue, 13 Dec 2005 23:26:52 -0600
Subject: [Python Wpg] Meeting dates.
Message-ID: <200512132326.52098.mpfaiffer@callapple.org>
Here is what I got from my friend at the WPCUG when I asked about dates to
avoid a conflict.
---------------------
Good idea!
The WPCUG meets every third Thursday of each month except in December when
the meeting is on the second Thursday.
---------------------
The remainder of the message was about getting together with some old friends
for lunch.
I got a couple of responses about set dates. A couple people didn't like the
idea of weekend meetings and a couple did. More people expressed interest in
the third Tuesday date we were discussing. Only one person said noon was
inconvenient. From the looks of things quite a few assumed we would
eventually move to evening meetings. I work out of the basement at home so it
doesn't matter to me as long as I don't have a conflict. As things start
falling into place I guess we can talk about it here.
The last thing I'd ask about is the DVD Python scripts Dave(?) and I were
talking about. I'd like to take a look. Particularly at anything having to do
with menu creation (video DVD). I'm running it under FC2 so there shouldn't
be a problem... This account should be fine for something that size.
Later
Mike
--
+----------------------------------------------------------------------+
|Call-A.P.P.L.E. and the Digital Civilization http://www.callapple.org |
| http://members.shaw.ca/pfaiffer = Mike Pfaiffer (B.A., B.Sc.) |
+----------------------------------------------------------------------+
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From phil at rephil.org Wed Dec 14 10:40:06 2005
From: phil at rephil.org (Phil Mendelsohn)
Date: Wed, 14 Dec 2005 09:40:06 -0600 (CST)
Subject: [Python Wpg] Meeting dates.
Message-ID: <33422.130.179.26.225.1134574806.squirrel@webmail.non-prophet.org>
Mike Pfaiffer said:
> I got a couple of responses about set dates. A couple people didn't like
> the idea of weekend meetings and a couple did.
To be expected. In general, I think there are two options in a logistical
setup like this:
1: Just pick one, and say that we're never going to make everyone happy
2: Alternate, one month Tuesday, one month Saturday.
> From the looks of things quite a few assumed we would
> eventually move to evening meetings.
While the group will do whatever the group needs to do, my personal
preference would be to see Tues. day/eve meetings alternate months with
Saturday afternoons. The odds of me making an evening meeting on weekdays
is extremely slight, mostly because it's a school night for my kids -- but
I'm just one guy. Of course, if I get that wish, it pretty well
guarantees that any of the topics I *really* want to see will be on the
meetings I _can't_ make... ;)
Downtown on weekdays is a bit inconvenient, but so far I am willing to be
seduced by the prospects of fun.
Just my 2 cents worth,
Phil M
--
Dept. of Mathematics, 342 Machray Hall
U. of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada R3T 2N2
Office: 446 Machray Hall, 204-474-6470
http://www.rephil.org/ phil at rephil dot org
--
Dept. of Mathematics, 342 Machray Hall
U. of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada R3T 2N2
Office: 446 Machray Hall, 204-474-6470
http://www.rephil.org/ phil at rephil dot org
From stuartw at mts.net Wed Dec 14 10:38:57 2005
From: stuartw at mts.net (Stuart Williams)
Date: Wed, 14 Dec 2005 09:38:57 -0600
Subject: [Python Wpg] Notes from organizational meeting.
Message-ID: <17312.15505.774681.324503@gargle.gargle.HOWL>
The Winnipeg Python Users Group had its first organizing meeting
Tuesday December 13th. Five persons attended. We made introductions,
chatted about Python, and discussed how to organize.
We talked about meeting times and the advantages and disadvantages of
meeting over the noon-hour. We scheduled our next meeting for
Tuesday, January 17th at 12:00 noon, location to be announced. We did
not assume that we would always meet during the day. There was
considerable interest in meeting on a weekend, perhaps Saturday
afternoon which could then spill over to dinner.
>From our experiences in other computer-related user groups we
discussed how to organize. There was general enthusiasm for a fairly
loose organization. There was also strong sentiment that some will
only attend regularly if it continues to be interesting and worthwhile
to them.
With respect to a web site, we thought it made sense to use the
python.org wiki (http://wiki.python.org/moin/WinniPUG) at least for
now. Several names were discussed including WPG and WinniPUG, but no
strong direction set.
With respect to getting the word out to others who may be interested,
we noted the Winnipeg PC Users Group Linux forum, CIPS, St. Boniface,
U of M, U of W, RRC, and SAGs (Special Area Groups) affiliated with
The Manitoba Teachers's Society (Science, Math, Business and IT, and
Computing groups might have interest). For high school teachers, we
talked about targeting a meeting in late winter for educators, or
taking a presentation to them elsewhere.
The following topics were mentioned (with a few added later via email
http://mail.python.org/pipermail/winnipeg/2005-December/000015.html)
as possible foci for meetings, with the first two slated for January
and February:
Dave's recent projects (January)
Database access (February)
Visual Python and/or Python in Teaching (programming or ?)
Zope, and Plone
replacing shell scripts
scientific computing
Python enhanced shells like ipython and emacs python mode
IDEs
OO features
Stuart.
From phil at rephil.org Wed Dec 14 10:25:42 2005
From: phil at rephil.org (Phil Mendelsohn)
Date: Wed, 14 Dec 2005 09:25:42 -0600 (CST)
Subject: [Python Wpg] Contacting UofM CS dept.
In-Reply-To: <200512132326.52098.mpfaiffer@callapple.org>
References: <200512132326.52098.mpfaiffer@callapple.org>
Message-ID: <33398.130.179.26.225.1134573942.squirrel@webmail.non-prophet.org>
I've contacted a Prof. in the CSCI dept. I served on a hiring committee
with, to see if there's any resources for meetings and possibilities for a
nominal "sponsorship" (for rooms, projectors, recruiting) in that dept.
Will advise.
Cheers,
Phil M
--
Dept. of Mathematics, 342 Machray Hall
U. of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada R3T 2N2
Office: 446 Machray Hall, 204-474-6470
http://www.rephil.org/ phil at rephil dot org
From dave at gabrielson.ca Wed Dec 14 15:09:18 2005
From: dave at gabrielson.ca (Dave Gabrielson)
Date: Wed, 14 Dec 2005 14:09:18 -0600
Subject: [Python Wpg] Python Introduction URL
Message-ID: <200512141409.18134.dave@gabrielson.ca>
Found this page on the python site. It's a good longer intro to the language:
http://www.python.org/doc/Introduction.html
--Dave.
From dave at gabrielson.ca Wed Dec 14 15:02:23 2005
From: dave at gabrielson.ca (Dave Gabrielson)
Date: Wed, 14 Dec 2005 14:02:23 -0600
Subject: [Python Wpg] Python Blurb, take 1
Message-ID: <200512141402.23890.dave@gabrielson.ca>
Here's my first go at the Python PR Blurb (pyPRB (?)):
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Python is a dynamically typed, object oriented scripting language which is
very clear and consise.
It's power lies mainly in its readability--- it is actually difficult to write
code which is hard to understand in Python (the language is often referred as
``executable pseudocode'').
Python is a _free_, _multi-platform_ language with built-in language support
for lists, dictionaries, other useful programming features.
There are interfaces to many system calls and libraries, as well as to various
windowing systems (Microsoft Windows, MacOS, X11, etc.).
Python can be used for just about any purpose from shell scripting to
prototyping large project to web applications (it is also usable as an
extension language for applications that need a programmable interface).
Help for installing and downloading Python for various platforms is available
on the website http://www.python.org.
If you have any distribution of Linux or Mac OS X, then you most likely
already have python installed on your computer!
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Let me know what you folks think... suggestions welcome!
--Dave.
From dave at gabrielson.ca Wed Dec 14 20:07:40 2005
From: dave at gabrielson.ca (Dave Gabrielson)
Date: Wed, 14 Dec 2005 19:07:40 -0600
Subject: [Python Wpg] January Talk Abstract (take 1)
In-Reply-To: <200512141402.23890.dave@gabrielson.ca>
References: <200512141402.23890.dave@gabrielson.ca>
Message-ID: <200512141907.40552.dave@gabrielson.ca>
I use python every single day. I don't mean that I necessarily _program_ in
python every day, but nearly every day for the past six months I use python
programs that either I or someone else have written.
I will be discussing my various day-to-day uses of python and python programs:
topics may range from Linux distribution tools to media center applications
to DVD authoring and back again. I will focus on a recent large project of
my own-- the Removable Media Management Filesystem.
---
For more information about python and my python projects (and uses), see
http://www.gabrielson.ca/~dave/python/
--Dave
From mpfaiffer at callapple.org Wed Dec 14 20:57:41 2005
From: mpfaiffer at callapple.org (Mike Pfaiffer)
Date: Wed, 14 Dec 2005 19:57:41 -0600
Subject: [Python Wpg] January Talk Abstract (take 1)
In-Reply-To: <200512141907.40552.dave@gabrielson.ca>
References: <200512141402.23890.dave@gabrielson.ca>
<200512141907.40552.dave@gabrielson.ca>
Message-ID: <200512141957.42860.mpfaiffer@callapple.org>
On December 14, 2005 07:07 pm, Dave Gabrielson wrote this amazing epistle:
<snip>
Both posts look good.
Later
Mike
--
+----------------------------------------------------------------------+
|Call-A.P.P.L.E. and the Digital Civilization http://www.callapple.org |
| http://members.shaw.ca/pfaiffer = Mike Pfaiffer (B.A., B.Sc.) |
+----------------------------------------------------------------------+
----- BEGIN GEEK CODE BLOCK -----
Version: 3.12
GCS/G/IT/PA/SS d s+:- a? C++ UL L++ W++ N++ o+ K- w(---) O+@ M++@ V PS+
PE !PGP t+ 5+ X R tv b+ DI+++ D++ G e++* h! r-- !y-- UF++
------ END GEEK CODE BLOCK ------
From dave at gabrielson.ca Wed Dec 14 21:03:26 2005
From: dave at gabrielson.ca (Dave Gabrielson)
Date: Wed, 14 Dec 2005 20:03:26 -0600
Subject: [Python Wpg] January Talk Abstract (take 1)
In-Reply-To: <200512141957.42860.mpfaiffer@callapple.org>
References: <200512141402.23890.dave@gabrielson.ca>
<200512141907.40552.dave@gabrielson.ca>
<200512141957.42860.mpfaiffer@callapple.org>
Message-ID: <200512142003.26450.dave@gabrielson.ca>
On December 14, 2005 07:57 pm, Mike Pfaiffer wrote:
> Both posts look good.
Thanks Mike.
By the way, at http://www.gabrielson.ca/~dave/python/ I have a link to my
DVDmaker script. It does not deal with menu issue-- although if you want to
talk about that off-list I'd be more than happy to do so.
--Dave.
From dave at gabrielson.ca Tue Dec 20 23:02:36 2005
From: dave at gabrielson.ca (Dave Gabrielson)
Date: Tue, 20 Dec 2005 22:02:36 -0600
Subject: [Python Wpg] topics i forgot to mention
In-Reply-To: <51482.24.79.4.246.1134517321.squirrel@mail2.plug.ca>
References: <51482.24.79.4.246.1134517321.squirrel@mail2.plug.ca>
Message-ID: <200512202202.37404.dave@gabrielson.ca>
Hi Syd (& everybody else),
On December 13, 2005 05:42 pm, syd at plug.ca wrote:
> A couple of topics that would be interesting (to me, at least) that I
> forgot to mention:
>
> 1. Python enhanced shells like ipython (very handy for auto completion,
> inspection), emacs python mode, (maybe vi(m) macros if anyone has any that
> they use?)
> 2. Python IDEs - Boa, Stani's Python Editor, Eclipse Python Plug-In (never
> gotten this to work, but i hear it does) (could be combined with #1 as
> "what tools are you using?")
Personally I use anything that supports syntax highlighting. I used to use
IDLE, way back in the day... I don't know if that's even being shipped
anymore.
> 3. For people who may be familiar with other object oriented languages but
> want to know how it's done in Python: How do modules, directories, files,
> and classes affect import statements, and how does that in turn affect
> namespaces? What does __init__.py do? How does inheritance work in Python?
> How do I override an inherited method? How do I call an inherited
> constructor? Why the heck would I *want* to call an inherited constructor?
> Kind of a general walk-through of how to take advantage of the
> object-oriented features of Python.
Python is all about namespaces.
Open an interactive shell, import something (say, the os.path module), and do
a dir(os.path) on it. (I can do this for over an hour when I'm busy
procrastinating).
__init__.py imports things for an entire package.
Let's say for example that I have a package called myos, which has a
myos.path, myos.fsutil, myos.boot and myos.service modules.
At the top level, you'd create a directory called myos.
Inside myos, you'd create the following files: __init__.py, path.py,
fsutil.py, boot.py and service.py.
__init__.py is the file that defines functions that you call from myos.
For example, it may define fork() and getpid() functions which you would call
in your code as myos.fork() and myos.getpid().
In another module you might need to deal with services, so you could then
import myos.service
and call functions like myos.service.start('httpd') or
myos.service.stop('samba') (or whatever).
Speaking of object oriented stuff, I've just done a little program that does
some OOP stuff and put it on my webpage. (viewfortune.py)
http://www.gabrielson.ca/~/dave/python/
> Regards,
> Syd
Hope this clears a few things up, or at least doesn't muddle things worse.
--Dave.
From phil at rephil.org Wed Dec 21 00:08:51 2005
From: phil at rephil.org (Phil Mendelsohn)
Date: Tue, 20 Dec 2005 23:08:51 -0600 (CST)
Subject: [Python Wpg] topics i forgot to mention
In-Reply-To: <200512202202.37404.dave@gabrielson.ca>
References: <51482.24.79.4.246.1134517321.squirrel@mail2.plug.ca>
<200512202202.37404.dave@gabrielson.ca>
Message-ID: <63600.64.201.190.96.1135141731.squirrel@webmail.non-prophet.org>
Dave Gabrielson said:
>(Syd said)
>> 2. Python IDEs - Boa, Stani's Python Editor, Eclipse Python Plug-In
>> (never
>> gotten this to work, but i hear it does) (could be combined with #1 as
>> "what tools are you using?")
>
> Personally I use anything that supports syntax highlighting. I used to use
> IDLE, way back in the day... I don't know if that's even being shipped
> anymore.
I'm not an Emacs fanatic, but that's where I live, mostly. That pretty
well takes care of anything like code display, syntax highlighting, and
tagging things.
My main interest is in coordinating editing and compilation. From this
stand point, an IDE makes little sense for an interpreted language --
that's one of the whole points of Python (to me -- of course everyone gets
their own thing out of it.)
> (I can do this for over an hour when I'm busy
> procrastinating).
Funny -- I can do this _later_ for over an hour when I'm busy
procrastinating!
> http://www.gabrielson.ca/~/dave/python/
delete----^
PhilM
--
Dept. of Mathematics, 342 Machray Hall
U. of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada R3T 2N2
Office: 446 Machray Hall, 204-474-6470
http://www.rephil.org/ phil at rephil dot org
From phil at rephil.org Wed Dec 21 00:12:35 2005
From: phil at rephil.org (Phil Mendelsohn)
Date: Tue, 20 Dec 2005 23:12:35 -0600 (CST)
Subject: [Python Wpg] Update on recruit / sponsor
Message-ID: <63602.64.201.190.96.1135141955.squirrel@webmail.non-prophet.org>
Have spoken with a prof in the CSCI dept at the U -- nothing there will
happen until after the holidays, I think, but even though this prof. isn't
personally interested in Python, she did say that she'd see about hooking
up with a "sponsor." Since the CSCI people all moved to new digs
recently, it is all a bit up in the air.
The upshot is that there might be rooms and resources available for us,
but I'm still checking out any possibilities. If other people set things
up elsewhere, there is no problem -- I just figure let's get as many
options as possible, and then we'll burn bridges when we get to them.
Will advise,
PhilM
--
Dept. of Mathematics, 342 Machray Hall
U. of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada R3T 2N2
Office: 446 Machray Hall, 204-474-6470
http://www.rephil.org/ phil at rephil dot org
From dave at gabrielson.ca Wed Dec 21 11:59:01 2005
From: dave at gabrielson.ca (Dave Gabrielson)
Date: Wed, 21 Dec 2005 10:59:01 -0600
Subject: [Python Wpg] topics i forgot to mention
In-Reply-To: <63600.64.201.190.96.1135141731.squirrel@webmail.non-prophet.org>
References: <51482.24.79.4.246.1134517321.squirrel@mail2.plug.ca>
<200512202202.37404.dave@gabrielson.ca>
<63600.64.201.190.96.1135141731.squirrel@webmail.non-prophet.org>
Message-ID: <200512211059.02045.dave@gabrielson.ca>
On December 20, 2005 11:08 pm, Phil Mendelsohn wrote:
> Dave Gabrielson said:
> > http://www.gabrielson.ca/~/dave/python/
>
> delete----^
Whoops! (Apparently I've got twitchy fingers when posting to the list-- I
can't even get my own URL's straight...)
http://www.gabrielson.ca/~dave/python/
--Dave.